Maintenance

Battery

~1min read

Checking the Battery

Checking the Battery

Check the battery terminals for corrosion monthly.

If your vehicle's battery is disconnected or goes dead:

  • The audio system is disabled.
  • The clock* resets.
  • The navigation system* is disabled.
  • Canadian models only The immobilizer system needs to be reset.

Battery

WARNING The battery gives off explosive hydrogen gas during normal operation. A spark or flame can cause the battery to explode with enough force to kill or seriously hurt you.

When conducting any battery maintenance, wear protective clothing and a face shield, or have a skilled technician do it.

WARNING: Battery post, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds.

Wash your hands after handling.

Disconnect both battery cables to prevent damaging your vehicle's electrical system.

Always disconnect the negative (-) cable first, and reconnect it last.

*1: Models with the smart entry system have an ENGINE START/STOP button instead of an ignition switch.

Battery

When you find corrosion, clean the battery terminals by applying a baking powder and water solution. Clean the terminal with a damp towel. Cloth/towel dry the battery. Coat the terminals with grease to help prevent future corrosion. When replacing the battery, the replacement must be of the same specifications. Please consult a dealer for more information. The VSA and CMBSTM* indicators may come on when your turn the ignition switch to ON *1 after re-connecting a battery.

Drive a short distance at 20 km/h. Each indicator should go off. If either or both do not, have your vehicle checked by a dealer.

Test yourself

A quick Honda Civic quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.